All Contents in Tools & Workshop (A-Z)

Tools & Workshop Articles, Blog Posts and Slideshows

10 DIYers Pick the Ultimate Mother's Day GiftsBetter than flowers, how about a gift that celebrates mom's passion and creativity? We asked some of our favorite crafty bloggers to help us make the right recommendations for DIY moms everywhere—click through to see all ten!

10 Gifts for the Tool Nut Who Has It AllIf you know someone who gets starry-eyed over T-squares and power drills, chances are that special someone already has a well-stocked workshop chock-full of tools of every imaginable kind, leaving you stumped on what to give. Don't despair! Here are 10 great gift ideas for the DIYer who has it all.

10 Great Woods for WoodworkingWoodworking pro, Spike Carlsen, shares his pick for the top ten best woodworking woods, along with the characteristics, best uses and cost range for each.

10 Life-Changing Tools for Easier Spring CleaningFew chores herald the season as much as an annual spring cleaning. But you need not break your back in the process of cleaning the house from top to bottom. That's because there's a heap of amazing cleaning tools that can help you do a thorough job—only with less time, elbow grease, and aches and pains. Whether you need a shortcut to dust-free floors or an ergonomic way to scrub hard to reach places, there's a cleaning tool to help. Click through to see some of our favorite spring cleaning tools.

10 Reasons Every DIYer Needs a Putty KnifeEven with all the new hand and power tools on the market, nothing can replace the dependability of the simple putty knife for everyday DIY tasks. Until now, you had to choose between carbon steel and stainless steel. Carbon steel offered flexibility, but before long it was rusty and useless, while the rust-resistant stainless steel knife was too rigid to tackle many jobs. Today, you don’t have to compromise, or even buy twice as many tools, to get around-the-house jobs done. <a href="http://www.hydetools.com/file/hyde%C2%AE-stainless-steel-superflexx-putty-and-joint-knives" title="http://www.hydetools.com/file/hyde%C2%AE-stainless-steel-superflexx-putty-and-joint-knives" target="_blank">HYDE Tools' SuperFlexx Stainless Steel Putty and Joint Knives</a> offer a superior combination of rust resistance, blade flexibility, and durability for knives that perform better than and outlast any putty knives you’ve ever owned. These aren’t your grandpa’s putty knives! Their versatility makes them a must-have in every toolbox. Click through for 11 reasons to stock these reliable hand tools today.
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<i>This post has been brought to you by Hyde Tools. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.</i>

10 Things You Didn't Know Super Glue Can DoEveryone has reached for the Krazy Glue at least once when fixing a broken object. Its sheer versatility makes this accidental invention one of the most ubiquitous—and useful—staples of DIY home repair. Some of its more obscure uses may be news to you, though. Get the most out of this small but mighty adhesive, and check out some amazing additional uses for this ultra-sticky glue.

11 Things to Know Before Visiting the Lumber YardChoosing the right wood for a home improvement project can be tricky for experienced woodworkers and novice DIYers alike. Luckily, knowing a few key lumber facts can make it easier to select the right woods for a whole range of projects—from framing to decking to furniture making. What is the real difference between hardwood and softwood? What does a wood's grade say about it? Which is more durable, pressure-treated lumber or composite decking? Should you opt for plywood or oriented strand board? Before you choose a wood for your next home project, understand the wood's benefits and drawbacks. Here are 11 facts you should know before you buy lumber for your next DIY.

12 Household Favorites Born in the USATo keep your home patriotic long after the fireworks have faded and your red, white, and blue decorations have been packed away, take a look at these favorites—all made in the USA. Consider them just a dozen reasons to buy American.

12 Surprising Ways to Use Zip TiesOriginally intended to corral cables and wires, zip ties are probably not the first product that comes to mind when you need to fix a broken zipper or pack for a trip. But these toothy plastic or nylon strips can do much more than contain cords. Read on to discover why you should add zip ties to your DIY arsenal to help you with storage, gardening, and other household tasks.

12 Things Every Homeowner NeedsBuying your own home is quite a milestone, but there's a lot of work involved in maintaining it. Owning means you've got to become your own handyman—and fast. For big renovation jobs, it will probably make sense to rent equipment you don't plan on using again, but for the mundane problems that plague every house, there are several essentials you'd be a fool to do without. Read on for our list of must-haves for every homeowner.

15 Handy Things to Get at Home Depot for Under $15Any homeowner knows that a trip through The Home Depot can be like sending an unsupervised kid into a candy shop: You may walk out with more than you bargained for. That said, there are a number of budget tools and materials that are so affordable that you can feel good about buying, no matter if you need them for your next immediate household fix or not.

15 Surprisingly Simple Woodworking Projects for BeginnersWoodworking doesn’t have to be daunting! Most of these fun, novice-friendly projects use scrap lumber and require just basic tools and some simple instructions. Tackle one of these beginner woodworking projects, and we guarantee you'll be itching to take on another.

17 Brands Born and Loved in the U.S.A.In honor of the Fourth of July, we decided to recognize some popular made-in-America brands. From garage doors to blankets to exterior paints, these companies are committed to providing sustainable jobs and fair industry practices. They are also dedicated to producing the best quality products in their categories. So go ahead—shop American!

5 Tool Deals Too Good to Pass UpWhether you’re a fix-it master or a weekend warrior, you'll need a few tools for jobs around the house that go beyond the basics. To stock your toolbox for less, check out our five favorite deals of the week!

6 Beginner Ways to Use a Woodworking RouterAny woodworker is well-acquainted with the router's myriad uses. The tool comes in handy for many projects around the house, both functional and decorative. It's a great power tool to own because it is portable and can be used for a range of cutting, trimming, and shaping tasks on wood, plastic, metal, and laminates. Indeed, many woodworkers consider the router to be the single most versatile woodworking power tool in their arsenal. At its most basic, a router is used to “rout out,” or hollow out, a hole or groove in a piece of wood, metal, or plastic, producing finished edges, cutaways, curved contours, and precise holes. Routers are frequently the go-to tool for cabinetry and decorative molding. There are literally hundreds of router bits available, all designed for different patterns and uses. If you're wondering how to use a router, here are a few common applications.

6 Things You Didn't Know Adhesive Can DoConstruction adhesive: It's a do-it-yourselfer favorite, a labor- and time-saver that long ago earned pride of place in the workshop. The best part? As advanced technology has unlocked new formulations, construction adhesive has gotten better and better over the years. Case in point: Liquid Nails Fuze*It, the latest from Liquid Nails Brand, boasts the ability to bond almost anything to almost everything else. Remarkably versatile, with robust, "instant grab" strength, Liquid Nails Fuze*It all but redefines construction adhesive, making it invaluable for a surprisingly wide spectrum of projects, large and small. Click through now to see just some of the ways Liquid Nails Fuze*It can help you conquer your to-do list!
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<em>This content has been brought to you by LIQUID NAILS Adhesive. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.</em>

6 Tools No DIYer Should Be Without This SpringWe’re entering the season of DIY and “to-do”—and that means it's finally time to get to that list of around-the-house projects you’ve put off all winter. Whether the game plan involves outdoor spring cleanup or, now that you can at last throw open the windows, refreshing your home’s interior, all handy homeowners rely on the same starting lineup: the tools. But take heart! A host of clever and innovative gadgets from <a href="http://www.hydetools.com" title="http://www.hydetools.com" target="_blank">Hyde Tools</a> stand at the ready to help make your projects as painless, efficient, and satisfying as possible. Click through for some of our favorites that will help you make the most of your spring fix-ups.
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<i>This post has been brought to you by Hyde Tools. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.</i>

7 Clever Alternative Uses for Your Trim PullerConstruction pros and savvy do-it-yourselfers who have purchased a Trim Puller for a demo job know how quickly, cleanly, and efficiently it removes and salvages trim while keeping walls flawless. But don’t be fooled by the name of this ingeniously designed hand tool: It’s good for a lot more than taking off trim. Don't let it languish idly in your workshop! Make the most of this innovative, <a href="http://zenithindustries.net/product/trim-puller/" rel="nofollow" target="_top">under-$30 implement</a> by using it for all kinds of home improvement projects. There's no need to worry about wearing out your Trim Puller with all the hard work. Manufactured of heat-treated carbon steel with an impact-absorbing EPDM comfort-grip handle, this sturdy little beauty is built to last. The Trim Puller is one tool that can more than pull its weight!
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<p><em>This post has been brought to you by <a href="http://www.trimpuller.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_top">Zenith Industries</a>. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.</em></p>

7 Tools That Contractors Swear ByDo-it-yourselfers rely on tools to get the job done. But for contractors, tools are much more than a means to an end—they are nothing short of a livelihood. Contractors can't afford not to be serious about gear. Not only do they stay up to date on the latest advances, but they also put tools to the ultimate test—hours-long usage, day after day. In the process, pros discover which tools really stand out. Thanks to a survey from Remodeling magazine, contractors' on-the-job favorites are no longer a trade secret. Click through now to find out which new building products the pros love most!

7 Ways to Set Up Your Home WorkshopWhere do you keep your workshop? It's best to set it up in a place where noise, dust, and space aren't an issue. But there are other considerations to keep in mind as well, like humidity, light, and ventilation. Check out our guide to help you decide how to proceed, no matter where you choose to add your own work space.

8 "Must Have" Tools for Home Improvement<p>Owning and maintaining a house can feel like a full time job—but it's certainly a rewarding one. DIY jobs like hanging drywall, painting the walls, or removing rust will keep your house in good shape, not to mention save you money on a contractor. Any home improvement job is made easier with the right tools. With that in mind, we pulled together a list of eight affordable, must have tools that will make common household tasks simpler than ever.</p>
<p"><em>This slide show is sponsored by <a href="http://www.hydetools.com" title="http://www.hydetools.com" target="_blank">HYDE Tools</a>. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.</em>
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8 Products Guaranteed to Last a LifetimeIn this modern age, it seems that as swiftly as new products are invented, they become outmoded, swept away by something newer, shinier, and (inevitably) more expensive. It almost seems like these days nothing's built to last. Luckily, that's not entirely true. There are still a handful of tried and true products that will stick with you as the years roll by. We've gathered some of our favorite last-forever-buys that will live up to the promise of their lifetime warranties.

8 Top Tools for Taming Your LandscapeYard maintenance doesn't have to be so hard. Gone are the days of struggling under the weight of unwieldy loppers or blistering hands with poor work gloves. The BobVila.com editors have rounded up a handful of handy and ergonomic tools to help you make quick work of yard work.

9 Clever Alternative Uses for SandpaperThe abrasive quality of sandpaper is good for more than painting prep and getting a smooth finish on wood furniture. Check out our favorite alternative ways to use this woodshop workhorse to sharpen, seed, and even clean.

9 Handy Holiday Gifts for the DIYer on Your ListThis holiday season, give the people on your list something they'll actually use. After all, some of the greatest gifts are practical. As you're writing up your shopping list, consider adding a few of these amazingly handy items that will make the DIYer in your life jump for joy!

9 Handy Uses for Your Cordless Drill/DriverSome folks swear by their wet saws for cutting tile, while others couldn’t bear to part with their trim router. But there's at least one power tool that any DIYer worth his salt keeps within reach and uses at least weekly—the cordless drill and driver. It’s portable and can be used for everything from hanging pictures to framing a house. But to those in the know, a cordless drill can help out with plenty of other tasks as well. Its rotating motor and adjustable chuck mean you can insert all kinds of things and make them spin—and this flexibility, it turns out, can be quite handy. Here are 9 new ways to use a cordless drill/driver.

9 Home Repair Remedies to Borrow from Your Medicine CabinetMaybe you’re a new homeowner, still unsure about what tools and supplies you need to own. Perhaps you've just downsized to a tiny house or apartment, and you’re looking to consolidate your possessions. Whatever the reason, you don’t have to sacrifice precious storage space to home improvement products—not when many of the everyday items that you have stocked in your <i>medicine cabinet</i> can do double- and even triple-duty as handy household aids! That's right: Most of the cures to common household complaints can be solved by something hiding in your bathroom. Read to learn just how unexpectedly useful your stock of toiletries can be.

9 Unusual Ways to Use WD-40WD-40 is a utility shelf staple. You probably know it as your go-to solution for squeaky hinges and rust prevention, but it's so much more! Inside the familiar blue-and-yellow can is a secret blend of lubricants with anticorrosion, water displacement, and soil removal superpowers. Grab a can today to solve some of the nagging household problems that follow.

A "Young House Love" AffairSherry Petersik is glowing. Her husband John is nearby. Baby Clara, one of the cutest child co-stars of the blogging ...

Band SawSome cabinetmakers of distinction assert that the band saw is the single most important stationary tool in the worksh...

Band Saw SafetyThis is a powerful cutting tool and must be used with proper respect and care. The Saw Table. Keep it clear of debris...

Basic Grinding 101I've never seen the guy so angry: His wife used a favorite chisel to open a paint can and my friend Dominick took it ...

Be Ready for Anything with 10 Mighty Pocket ToolsWhen it's time to tackle a few home improvement projects, it's hard to beat having a nicely stocked toolbox by your side. But small fixes around the house shouldn't require you to haul around a big bucket of gear. With the right small tool in your pocket, you'd be surprised at just how much you could get done—and on short notice too. Carry any of these 10 pocket-size tools, and you'll be prepared for whatever life throws at you.

Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" July ProjectsLonger days and warmer weather mean there's so much more to enjoy this time of year. At the same time, you may also find there's more to do around the house. Help yourself tackle this month's to-do list—and have a little fun along the way—with my must-do projects for July.

Bob Vila's 2015 Father's Day Gift GuideWhat do you get the dad who has it all? This Father's Day, consider treating the man who taught you everything to something he will <em>truly</em> enjoy—whether its a gift that furthers a passion project of his or simply makes the living easy. We've pulled together 10 of the latest and greatest ideas to help wrap up your gift hunt.

Bob Vila's 7 Essential Woodworking ToolsAs any homeowner will attest, there is always something to fix at home. If it involves woodworking, you’ll want to equip your workshop with the right set of tools. Here are 7 essential woodworking tools to get any job done—or on its way.

Buyer’s Guide: The Best Snow Blowers<p>The first snowfall of the season can be beautiful—but it won’t be long before it buries your driveway and walkway. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in a snowbank to start shopping for a snow blower. To point you in the right direction, we've collected helpful information about some of today's top-rated models, but don't hit the stores until you know what type of snow blower is best for your needs. </p><br/>
<p>One of the most important considerations in shopping for a snow blower is the average snowfall in your area. Light-duty electric snow blowers can handle four to six inches of light snow on flat-paved driveways and sidewalks. They may not, however, perform well in heavier or deeper snowfalls, or on hilly properties.</p><br/>
<p>It's critical to choose a model with the correct size, weight, and power. Heavier snowfall requires a heavier, more powerful snow blower—but if it's too heavy for you to maneuver, it won't do you any good. Look for a unit with multiple speeds and traction control. Lightweight, light-duty snow blowers typically are single-stage electric models and are not only the easiest to handle but also the least expensive. Electric machines are ideal for clearing flat-paved driveways and shorter sidewalks in areas where typical snowfall averages four inches or less. On the downside, they usually require an outside electrical outlet and extension cord.</p><br/>
<p>Single-stage gas-powered snow blowers can handle more snow and clear a wider pathway. These types of blowers have an auger that draws the snow in, chops it up, and then propels it out a discharge chute. These models are suitable for flat, paved surfaces in regions where the typical snowfall is six to eight inches. </p><br/>
<p>The heaviest and most powerful models are two-stage gas-powered snow blowers that can tackle snowfalls in excess of eight inches on hills and longer sidewalks. These larger models can clear pathways from 24 to 32 inches wide and cut easily through deep, packed snow. The wheels on these models can even handle unpaved surfaces, such as gravel driveways and walkways.</p><br/>
<p>Like any high-power tool, snow blowers come with extras and options, including power steering, electric starters, heated handles, headlights, and snap-on, flexible enclosures. Many users may not need all the bells and whistles, but buyers would do well to consider machines with multiple forward and reverse speeds as well as a “dead man’s switch” that stops the auger from spinning if you let go of the handle—an important safety feature.</p> <br/>
<p>Read on for some of the top-rated and best-selling snow blowers available today.</p>

Disk SanderSanding disks are prefabricated disks of abrasive paper. They can be mounted on a variety of tools, including the rad...

Do-Good Adventures: 9 Exciting Summer Volunteer Opportunities Vacations can be about more than rest and relaxation. Engage your spirit of adventure and sense of civic duty with a vacation that helps those around you. With volunteer vacations that range from performing maintenance on the Appalachian Trail to saving snowy plovers on the beaches of the Central Coast of California to building homes in the wake of disasters, you're sure to find a program to suit almost every interest and skill level. Here are 9 volunteer vacation opportunities around the United States that should inspire you to action.

Doweling JigA convenient method of joining boards is a dowel joint. Especially useful when two or more boards are being joined (b...

Drawing a Workshop Floor PlanYour head is swimming with the challenges presented by the size of your machines, the limitations of the available sp...

Drill Bits for Different JobsAn electric drill without bits is like a bow without arrows. And the better the bit (or arrow, I suppose), the better...

Drill PressThe drill press is a fixed-in-place version of the simple hand drill with a worktable beneath. A hole at the center o...

Get a Grip: 8 Clamps to Help You Handle Any ProjectClamps are immensely helpful (even essential) in performing cer­tain tasks. But, which clamp—among the various hand-screw, bar, spring, strap, pipe and C-clamp—is the right one for the project at hand? Here are 8 popular clamps and what they can do when put into service.

Get to Work! 13 DIY Workbenches, Craft Counters, and Potting TablesWhether you’re a woodworker, gardener, craftaholic or avid DIYer, you need a comfortable area where you can do what you love to do. Sure, there are loads of craft tables, workbenches, and potting benches available for purchase, but why not make your own and save money in the process? Whether you build from scratch or by repurposing existing furniture, there are loads of great options for makers of all skill levels.<br>
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Although you're ultimately going to build the DIY craft table, workbench, or potting bench that best suits your needs, some basic guidelines can help focus your efforts. For instance, bear in mind that a table height between 32 and 36 inches often works best, as it allows for most people to work comfortably while standing or sitting. The ideal table depth depends on the kind of work you do. A depth of 30 inches enables most people to reach back to front, but if you work on larger pieces, it may be wise to let the average dimensions of your work dictate the depth of your table.
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For some of our favorite examples from of DIY craft table projects and more, click through right now!

Nail GuideThe parts of the nail are the head, shank or shaft, point, and the gripper marks - slight grooves incised into the sh...

Nailing TechniquesNailing a nail isn't just a matter of ready, aim, and swing. Other elements enter in, like the size of the nail, the ...

New & Notable: 10 Digital Tools to Help You DIY Your Dream HomeEven in today’s digital age, you still can’t quite design a dream home in just a matter of clicks. You can, however, use a number of online resources and a phone full of apps to help the whole process operate smoothly, whether you’re a first-time remodeler or an old pro. We’ve rounded up our favorite digital home renovation resources that you can put to work to make your next project easier.

The 10 Commandments of Buying the Right ToolsWhether you’re a veteran weekend warrior or a newcomer to home improvement, you’ll get nothing done without reliable tools you can wield with confidence. But rather than buy a comprehensive set of tools all at once, opt instead to build your collection gradually over time, so you can give due thought to each purchase. As you deliberate over which are the right tools to buy for the tasks at hand, bear in mind these words of advice from an expert.

The 7 Essential Tools of DeconstructionThere’s demolition, which totally trashes a room in preparation for remodeling, and then there’s deconstruction. The latter takes a kinder, gentler, smarter approach that aims to salvage reusable features and fixtures—from hardwood flooring and decorative trim to cabinets, countertops, and even sinks. Deconstruction is growing in popularity, and not just within the green movement. It simply makes sense to take your place apart without ruining still-viable materials. Even if you don’t reinstall the items as part of your current project, you may find use for them in another spot later! And if you come away with something you really don’t want, you can donate or sell it to someone who does—as they say, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Sure, swinging a sledgehammer or some other implement of architectural annihilation can make short work of a demo job, but if you're armed with the right tools, you can complete the more orderly work of deconstruction at a satisfying clip. Read on for the basics.
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<em>This post has been brought to you by Zenith Industries. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.</em>

The 8 Best Tools for Conquering Ice and SnowWhile winter does have its upsides—cozy fires, hot chocolate, snow days—for many of us, having to deal with all the snow is a battle of unpleasant proportions. Here, we introduce you to the best weapons to help you win the fight—the tools and implements that will help you vanquish the ice and snow in no time, so you can retreat back inside your nice warm home.

The BacksawLike the word handsaw, the name backsaw is something of a catchall term. In general, a backsaw is a handsaw with a br...

The Basic WorkbenchThe woodworking bench is to the workshop as bases are to the game of baseball: Without a proper bench at which to wor...

The Bench GrinderThe bench grinder is to the workshop as the trainer is to the team. It doesn't run out on the field when a tool goes ...

The Block PlaneQuality planed stock can be bought from most lumberyards today, but wood that has been dressed on all four sides wasn...

The Bow SawOne reason for the fascination of antique tools is their visual ap­peal. For many people, the bow saw has just such a...

The Cellar ShopFor most of us, the answer isn't a separate building, a closet, or even the garage. The single most popular alternati...

The Chalk BoxI've admired this deceptively simple tool since I first saw my father use it decades ago. It is used to mark straight...

The CompressorThe compressor is a machine that compresses the gases in the air around us to pressures greater than that of the norm...

The Coping SawCoping is a process by which one piece with an irregular surface is fitted to another. In practice, most of us encoun...

The End-Wall ShopThis is the classic garage work area. The bench is fixed on the end wall and your car is still comfortably situated i...

The Essential ToolboxWhether you’re a rookie handyman or a seasoned do-it-yourselfer, a range of basic tools is essential to doing the sma...

The Essential Toolbox: 12 Tools You Can't DIY WithoutWhether you’re a rookie handyman or a seasoned do-it-yourselfer, you need a variety of basic tools for doing small jobs around the house. The full range of tools you need will be determined by your skills and the kinds of jobs you do, but for the basics, in addition to the usual tape measure, screwdriver set, claw hammer, and electric drill with an assortment of bits, consider making these 12 less obvious, but equally essential, tools part of your DIY arsenal.

The Forgotten DIY Wisdom That Dads Know BestWhether a pipe bursts or construction begins on a new home addition, we often call the handiest people we know for some sage advice: our dads. In honor of the fast-approaching Father's Day, we've asked a few of our favorite DIY bloggers to share with us what home improvement knowledge they've picked up from their own fathers. Let the next 10 heartwarming and valuable lessons in DIY prove Dad always knows best.

The Hand-Held Circular SawThe circular saw was invented in England at the turn of the nineteenth century, though there is considerable disagree...

The Ideal Workshop LayoutA landscape designer friend of mine tells a story about the college he went to. During his years there, the universit...

The JointerThe very name speaks to the nature of this tool. If you aspire to be a joiner, a person who specializes in fastening ...

The Plate JoinerThe world of woodworking got along quite nicely, thank you very much, without the plate joiner. Yet making furniture ...

The Plumb BobWhat Is a Plumb Bob?The plumb bob or plumb line employs the law of gravity to establish what is “plumb” (that is, wha...

The Portable Table SawFor on-site work, a portable table saw is more practical than larger, heavier table saws. It rips and crosscuts; it m...

Tool StorageThe way to avoid the I-can't-find-it syndrome is to have ap­propriate containers for tool storage and transport. Seve...

Tool Time: 11 Nails Every DIYer Should KnowDifferent projects demand different types of nails. For instance, installing trim and molding calls for finishing nails, while a new roof needs a—you guessed it—roofing nail. Read on to discover 10 of the most common nail types and when to use them.

Tool or Art? You DecideWhen does a simple hand tool—let's say a saw—become a work of art? For tool collectors, the answer is an easy one: w...

Toolboxes for the Modern Weekend WarriorSure, tools are an absolute necessity for DIY projects, but just as critical is the box in which you store them. A good toolbox can help ease any project along by organizing, protecting, and transporting your tools safely and efficiently. If you still picture these boxes as the dull metal tins everyone's dad once owned, think again. The 7 takes on the toolbox shown here demonstrate the wide variety available to suit both your work style and your personal style.

Wood ChiselsSuppose you borrowed H. G. Well's time machine and traveled back into history a few centuries or even a millennium. S...

Wood JointsThe language of the joiner is filled with words that we know well from ordinary usage but here have new and distinct ...

Wood TemplatesWood templates are patterns or models used in the making of specific pieces, usually those with curved lines or irreg...

Woodworking GaugesThese simple tools haven't changed much in generations (no doubt the old cliché about not fixing things that aren't b...

Woodworking Vise GuideA woodworking vise, according to its dictionary definition, consists of two jaws for holding work and a mechanism, us...

Workbench TypesWoodworker's Bench. This is perhaps the most familiar configuration for a workbench. Its top is of hardwood and is u...

Workshop DresserAn old chest of drawers or desk can be transformed into a combination bench-and-tool cabinet. With the tools stowed a...

Workshop ElectricityPower tools swallow up power the way dogs consume their food: in great, huge gulps. Most tools have two kinds of dema...

Workshop LightingAt a minimum, you need a conveniently located switch at the en­trance that powers up the main lighting. Most likely, ...

Workshop LocationsPerhaps you already know exactly where you will be locating your workshop. Maybe you already have a workplace in some...

Workshop Planning ChecklistIn laying out your workshop, have you considered the following?&#160; Taking these factors into account will help mak...

Workshop SafetyWorkshop safety consists of more than just wearing proper protective gear. Here are a few other guidelines:Know Thy T...

WorktablesWorktable. If there is room for it, make yourself a worktable using a full sheet of three-quarter-inch plywood. It's ...

Young House Love: 7 Tips for Romantic DIYIn celebration of Valentine’s Day, here are seven Petersik-style wisdoms—culled from the posts of “Young House Love” and from an interview with Sherry—that may help you keep romance up and stress down when your kitchen is covered in plastic and you’re doing the work of eight people.

Discussing the Hallway WallsBob highlights the long curved wall in the loft's hallway. The wall provides a great deal of storage, and serves as a divider between the private and public spaces within the apartment.

Reviewing the BlueprintsBob joins the contractors from Crosswinds Enterprises. With framing for the accessible home nearly complete, Bob gets a sense of the layout and looks over the blueprints.

Restoring the Front PorchThe front porch is undergoing full restoration, due to excessive water and pest damage to the columns and other structural elements. Demolition begins and repair work starts on the foundation.

Installing a China CabinetThe newly built china cabinet is installed. The unit was constructed in several peices, so it would fit through the front door. Several final cuts and adjustments are made to fit the cabinet around the existing trim.

Installing Baseboards and Window CasingsBob meets with carpenter Bob Ryley to install baseboard and window casings. Time-saving techniques are discussed, as are the tricky cuts one can make to ensure a tight fit. Ryley measures out a window and adds a new casing.

Building a Deck and StairsBob meets with contractor Bill Wilcox to help build a landing and steps up to the French doors. Bob reviews the footings that support the deck, as well as the methods used to fasten the deck to the house.

Building a BookcaseBob and carpenter Bob Ryley meet in the workshop to build a set of bookcases for the home. Ryley demonstrates the various cuts and joining methods used to make the furniture sturdy. Face plates are added for a finished look.

Plaster Cornice ReconstructionBob surveys the plaster cornice in the project home. Water damage has ruined a large section and much of the remaining plaster needs repair. Bob and restoration contractor Richard Sparks discuss the different elements of the reconstruction process.

Decorative Woodwork RestorationBob assists Patty Hettich in stripping paint from decorative woodwork, then making rubber molds to create new details in the Federal-style home.

Plaster and Cornice WorkBob joins restoration contractor Richard Marks to see how the existing plaster and cornice work is blended with the new drywall.

Bench ConstructionThe wood has arrived for the perimeter benches, so Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin constructing the architect-designed benches for the greenhouse. The wood is a cypress, which is excellent in damp environments.

Distressing Wood BeamsJuan Santos shows Bob how to distress the new Douglas Fir ceiling beams so they look like they're hundreds of years old. By using standard construction tools in an artistic form, Santos can even add the appearance of termite damage.

Visiting Tecate, MexicoBob travels to Tecate, Mexico to meet tilemaker Javier Ramirez. Javier shows Bob the different kinds of clay common to the Baja region of Mexico, and demonstrates how the clay is used in different types of handmade and painted tiles.

Framing the BarnBob confers with Paul Pacella (from Maine Post and Beam of Cape Cod) about framing the barn. Eastern white pine is being used; this type of pine is a popular lumber choice in New England thanks to ready availability and low cost.

Discussing the Framing and Selecting a Garage DoorBob and contractor Bob Ryley review the building plans and the progress made on the post-and-beam garage. Framing continues, and Bob discusses the various joints and tools used. He and Ryley also choose a large door for one end of the building.

Talking Indy Race Cars With Lyn St. James1992 Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year Lyn St. James visits Bob at the garage project to share her automotive expertise. With temperatures falling outside, Bob parks his 1974 Jaguar E-type B-12 roadster in the barn for the winter.

Creating the Porch Railings and BalustersAfter reviewing the final stages of the septic system installation, Bob helps contractor Bob Ryley install the decorative porch railings and balusters that Ryley has made by hand.

Building the Farmer's PorchBob discusses the process of building the farmer's porch with contractor Larry Landers. The natural crowning of wood is discussed, as are methods for ensuring a level surface.

Applying Exterior Trim to the Dormer WindowBob helps carpenter Bob Ryley apply exterior trim to the gable end dormer window. Ryley demonstrates how to avoid seams, how to transfer an angle from the roof to the trim, and how to create the perfect triangular cut for the ear board.

Building the Porch RailThe carpenter shows Bob the new railing on the deck off the master bedroom, explaining that code requires that it be 36 inches tall. The carpenter then builds a piece of railing from scratch, showing how to line up the holes and pre-drill them.

Creating the Built-in CabinetsBob meets with Ryley to discuss the site-built, built-in cabinets of birch plywood. Ryley demonstrates many of the cuts and jigs used in crafting the cabinets, and the techniques used to make the panel doors.

Constructing a Clapboard Sunburst FanBob joins siding contractor Brian Quinn, who is constructing a beautiful gable-end sunburst fan from clapboard siding. Quinn explains how to lay out the center moon, how to calculate the spacing and size of each fan, and how to cut the material.

Building the "Floating" DeckThe "floating" deck is built off the master bedroom, over the kitchen. Under the decking, rubber padding is placed.

Pine Porch CeilingContractor Larry Landers installs V-groove pine on the ceiling of the new front porch and demonstrates how to stagger and miter boards for an attractive, old-fashioned look.

Building a Custom Stair RailingThe carpenter explains details of the stair railing to Bob. For example, using a mortise joint adds strength and rigidity to the railing, while using a biscuit joiner makes short work of the cutting.

Custom Crown MoldingBob tours the factory where the project house's custom crown molding is cut to custom specifications, while, back at the site, carpenter Bob Ryley struggles to install the molding on uneven walls.

Front Hall MirrorCarpenter Bob Ryley demonstrates how the front hall mirror is custom-built in the workshop.

Custom Trim, Windows, and Pocket DoorGeneral contractor Tim Berky trims out the windows with custom millwork created from a profile of the home's original trim. Bob looks at the four-panel cherry pocket door that's been installed between the mudroom and kitchen space.

Installing Cedar Deck RailingsGeneral contractor Tim Berky is building the cedar deck railings, first by notching the edge board to receive posts, then by fitting one post into each notch. Once assembled, he attaches sections of railing to posts by driving in screws.

Completing the Trim on the Oriel WindowGeneral contractor Tim Berky is completing trim on the oriel window that faces onto the deck. He begins by covering the underboard with MDO (medium density overlay). Then, he adds an ice and water barrier, and copper flashing, before finishing.

Deck Framing with Pressure-Treated LumberRick Kleiner (from the Southern Forest Products Association) joins Bob to talk about using pressure-treated deck members. Such lumber resists fungal growth, termites, and decay, and is capable of supporting a strong and stable deck for decades.

Building the Deck FrameGeneral contractor Tim Berky and his crew remove existing cladding in order to fit the ledger board for the deck tight against the house, with an ice and water barrier to protect against water penetration.

Plans for the Multi-Level Backyard DeckThe extensive new deck will have multiple levels and various sections. General contractor Tim Berky digs holes for the footings before setting them in concrete.